If you hate fuss but worry your wedding won’t look or feel special without it, Derius and Jean Olivier’s celebration is just for you. The couple married in lovely, laid-back style recently with just the right amount of pretty details to create a sense of occasion. The result: a simple, tasteful celebration filled with warmth, sincerity and joy! From casual flower arrangements and cute chalkboard signage to homemade food and flirty fairy lights, you’ll find sweet inspiration in these images from Glenister Photography. PS We love (love!) their naked cake …
How did your groom propose?
Derius proposed to me on a weekend away in the Lowveld. True to his nature, for about four months beforehand he made me believe that we were flying to Cape Town for the weekend. On the day we were set to depart, he missed the turnoff to the airport completely and continued to the most romantic spot – Tanamera Lodge. The entire weekend there was filled with surprises, massages,a treetop canopy tour and dinners. On the Saturday evening, I had convinced myself that it (a proposal) was not going to happen, but he had organised a romantic, candlelit dinner in the suite. Before I knew it, Derius knelt down next to me (to “fix” a wobbly table) and asked “Jean, will you marry me?” He pulled out of his pocket the most beautiful ring I had ever seen! Of course, through the tears, I said yes.
Tell us about the theme of your wedding.
We married at Diamond Hill Country Venue, about 30 minutes outside of Pretoria towards Bronkhorstspruit. I knew it was right for us the moment we walked into the chapel. The venue is set high on a hill, between valleys, and the view took my breath away! Our theme was inspired by the setting and was very rustic and natural. It was so easy choosing the decor and flowers: we chose flowers that captured the natural feel we wanted in shades of soft pink and white, and used various glass vases and bottles for a rustic, relaxed feel. Ben and Estelle at Diamond Hill Country Venue made sure every detail was perfect.
And the menu?
Estelle is a whizz in the kitchen and her fresh, homemade food was a definite hit. The menu was buffet style and included balsamic biltong surprise for starters, chicken pie, lamb, seasonal vegetable dishes and the most delicious desserts, from malva pudding to Amarula and peppermint ice cream.
What was the highlight of the day?
The entire day was absolutely perfect, but if I could choose one highlight it would be that I married my best friend. There is a saying that goes: “When you realise you want to spend your life with someone, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.”
Any special advice for brides-to-be?
Even though there is sure to be stress leading up to your big day, remember the reason why you are getting married and who you are saying “I do” to. Log off Pinterest, close the wedding magazines and enjoy each and every second of the excitement – and be sure to share all of your moments with the people who are nearest and dearest to you.
Little black book
Bridesmaids’ dresses: Bridal Alchemy 079 254 9895
Cake: Whisk Baking Couture 083 560 7770
Coordinator/wedding planner: Diamond Hill Country Venue, Estelle Vosloo on 012 736 2351
Decor: Diamond Hill Country Venue 012 736 2351. Oopsie Daisy Flowers 011 028 0809
Dress: Bridal Alchemy 079 254 9895
Entertainment: Epic Sound; email info@epicsound.info
Flowers: Oopsie Daisy Flowers 011 028 0809
Food: Diamond Hill Country Venue 012 736 2351
Groom’s outfit: Hugo Boss & Polo
Groomsmen’s outfits: Black Tie 012 342 6632
Hair and make-up: Natassha Struwig 079 497 0478; email natassha.struwig@gmail.com
Photography: Glenister Photography 076 087 6952
Stationery: I designed and made all the stationary for our wedding
Venue: Diamond Hill Country Venue 012 736 2351
